Embedded electronic circuit in grinding wheels and methods of embedding

ABSTRACT

A bonded abrasive wheel is disclosed comprising a plurality of abrasive particles disposed in a binder, a first grinding surface, a second surface opposing the first grinding surface, and an outer circumference. The wheel comprises a rotational axis extending through a central hub and a circuit configured as a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unit coupled to the abrasive wheel. The circuit comprises an antenna configured to communicate with one or more external devices and comprising a first end and a second end, wherein antenna has a radius of curvature about an axis along at least a portion thereof such that the first end is disposed adjacent to but is spaced from the second end, and an integrated circuit (IC) operably coupled to the antenna and configured to store at least a first data.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a national stage filing under 35 U.S.C. 371 ofPCT/IB2019/056931, filed Aug. 15, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/723,123, filed Aug. 27, 2018, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its/their entiretyherein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to consumable abrasive products, and moreparticularly, to consumable abrasive products having an electroniccircuit embedded therein.

BACKGROUND

Abrading tools and associated consumable abrasive products are used innumerous industries. For example, consumable abrasive products are usedin the woodworking industries, marine industries, automotive industries,construction industries, and so on. Consumable abrasive products caninclude bonded abrasive wheels such as cut-off wheels and grindingwheels that are used for physically abrading workpieces. Bonded abrasivewheels are typically in the shape of a circular wheel and are arrangedaround a central hub. Bonded abrasive wheels include abrasive particlessuch as rods bonded together by a bonding medium (i.e., a binder). Thebonding medium may be an organic resin (e.g., resin bond wheels), butmay also be an inorganic material such as a ceramic or glass (i.e.,vitreous bond wheels).

Consumable abrasive products are consumable in the sense that they canbe consumed and replaced much more frequently than the abrading toolswith which they are used. For instance, a grinding wheel for an anglegrinder can only last for a few days of work before needing to bereplaced, but the angle grinder itself can last many years.

SUMMARY

This disclosure describes apparatuses, techniques and methods forembedding electronic circuitry within bonded abrasive wheels. Suchcircuitry can comprise Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) circuitry,Near Field Communication (NFC) circuitry, or another type of circuitrythat be used for communication, for example. Also disclosed herein aresystems and techniques related to communication equipped abrading tools,consumable abrasive products (here a bonded grinding wheel), workpieces,and/or operating devices (e.g., robotic devices). As described herein,communication among components of the system (e.g., the abradingtool(s), the grinding wheel(s), workpiece(s), operating devices, etc.)and potentially one or more other computing systems can provide/utilizedata that can be used enhance safety, quality, asset security,regulatory compliance, and inventory management.

In one example, a bonded abrasive wheel is disclosed. The bondedabrasive wheel can optionally comprise: a plurality of abrasiveparticles disposed in a binder; a first grinding surface; a secondsurface opposing the first grinding surface; an outer circumference; arotational axis extending through a central hub; and a circuitconfigured as a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unit coupled tothe abrasive wheel, wherein the circuit optionally can comprise: anantenna configured to communicate with one or more external devices andcomprising a first end and a second end, wherein antenna has a radius ofcurvature about an axis along at least a portion thereof such that thefirst end is disposed adjacent to but is spaced from the second end, andan integrated circuit (IC) operably coupled to the antenna andconfigured to store at least a first data.

In another example, a bonded abrasive wheel is disclosed. The bondedabrasive wheel can optionally comprise: a plurality of abrasiveparticles disposed in a binder; a first grinding surface; an outercircumference; a rotational axis extending through a central hub; and acircuit configured as a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unitcoupled to the bonded abrasive wheel, wherein the circuit can optionallycomprise: an antenna embedded within the bonded abrasive wheel; and anintegrated circuit (IC) operably coupled to the antenna, wherein theintegrated circuit is encapsulated within a material having a modulus ofgreater than 0.25 MPa but less than 125 GPa.

In yet another example, a bonded abrasive wheel is disclosed. The bondedabrasive wheel can optionally comprise: a plurality of abrasiveparticles disposed in a binder; a first grinding surface; an outercircumference; a rotational axis extending through a central hub; and acircuit configured for communication coupled to the bonded abrasivewheel, wherein the circuit can optionally comprise: an antenna embeddedwithin the bonded abrasive wheel, the antenna comprising a mesh having aplurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings being definedbetween a plurality of strands of the mesh, and wherein, incross-section, wherein a total area of all of the plurality of openingsis between 5 times and 20 times smaller than a central opening definedby the antenna having the radius of curvature; and an integrated circuit(IC) operably coupled to the antenna.

In yet a further example, a method of making a bonded abrasive wheel isdisclosed. The method can optionally comprise the steps of: positioninga first layer of a first curable composition into a mold having acircular mold cavity with a central portion configured to create acentral hub, wherein the circular mold cavity has an outercircumference, and wherein the first curable composition comprisesabrasive particles dispersed in a binder precursor; forming a least afirst recess in the first layer of the first curable composition;positioning a circuit within the mold on the first layer of the firstcurable composition, wherein the positioning includes positioning anintegrated circuit (IC) of the circuit within the at least first recess;positioning a second layer of first curable composition into the mold onthe first layer and the circuit such that the circuit is positionedbetween the first layer and the second layer; and at least partiallycuring the first curable composition to provide the bonded abrasivewheel.

Features and advantages of the present disclosure will be furtherunderstood upon consideration of the detailed description as well as theappended claims.

The details of one or more examples of the disclosure are set forth inthe accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features,objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from thedescription, drawings, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example system for monitoringan abrading tool, a consumable abrasive product, and/or a workpiece, inaccordance with one example of the present application.

FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary bonded abrasivewheel in accordance with one example of the present application.

FIG. 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the bonded abrasive wheelof FIG. 1A including a portion of an embedded circuit taken along line1A-1A.

FIG. 2 is a top schematic cross-sectional view of an example circuitthat can be used within the bonded abrasive wheel, in accordance withone example of the present application.

FIG. 2A is a side schematic cross-sectional view of the circuit of FIG.2.

FIG. 3 is a side schematic cross-sectional view of another example of acircuit having a wire antenna, in accordance with one example of thepresent application.

FIG. 3A is a cross-section of the wire antenna of FIG. 3.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of an antenna having a firstbacking and a second backing, in accordance with one example of thepresent application.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the circuit of FIG. 2 illustrating a widthof an antenna, in accordance with one example of the presentapplication.

FIG. 5A is a schematic view showing several types of abrasive particleswith a major dimension indicated with a dimension Y, in accordance withone example of the present application.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show alternative circuit configurations that utilizeantennas having a variable extent about an axis of symmetry such that afirst one or more portions of the antenna are disposed relatively closerto the axis than a second one or more portions of the antenna, inaccordance with examples of the present application.

FIG. 8A is side schematic cross-sectional view of another examplecircuit that can be used within the bonded abrasive wheel that includesencapsulation of an integrated circuit, in accordance with one exampleof the present application.

FIG. 8B is a side schematic cross-sectional view of the circuit of FIG.8A embedded within the bonded abrasive wheel and showing a region aroundthe antenna that can utilize a different type of abrasive particle or afiller, in accordance with one example of the present application.

FIG. 8C is a top schematic cross-sectional view of the circuit and thebonded abrasive wheel of FIG. 8B.

FIG. 9 is a top schematic cross-sectional view of another example of acircuit utilizing a mesh antenna and a bonded abrasive wheel, inaccordance with one example of the present application.

FIG. 9A is an enlarged view of a portion of the mesh antenna of FIG. 9.

FIG. 10 is a side schematic cross-sectional view of another examplegrinding wheel including a circuit positioned between a first scrim anda second scrim, in accordance with one example of the presentapplication.

FIG. 11 is a top schematic cross-sectional view of another example of acircuit that includes an embedded antenna but an integrated circuit thatis mounted to or above either a grinding surface or a surface opposingthe grinding surface, in accordance with one example of the presentapplication.

FIG. 11A is a side schematic cross-sectional view of the circuit of FIG.11.

FIG. 12 is a side schematic cross-sectional view of another circuit anda bonded abrasive wheel where leads and an integrated circuit are addedto the circuit in an assembly plug (shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B)insertable into an opening in the bonded abrasive wheel, in accordancewith one example of the present application.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are schematic views of the assembly plug that can beutilized with the circuit and bonded abrasive wheel of FIG. 12, inaccordance with one example of the present application.

FIG. 13 is top schematic cross-sectional view of another example of acircuit that comprises a bushing for a bonded abrasive wheel, inaccordance with one example of the present application.

FIG. 13A is an enlarged view of the bushing of FIG. 13.

FIG. 14 is a side schematic cross-sectional view of a mold for formingan bonded abrasive wheel and including a circuit, bushing, severallayers of curable compositions and scrims, in accordance with oneexample of the present application.

FIG. 15 shows an example of an antenna that is used in accordance withthe Working Example.

FIG. 16 shows a mold, circuit and scrims that are used in accordancewith the Working Example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Abrading tools and associated consumable abrasive products includingbonded abrasive wheels present various challenges for individuals andorganizations. In one example, inventory of tools, worker information,and consumable abrasive products may not be centrally managed, leadingto inconsistent tracking of tool usage. In another example, damaged orworn bonded abrasive wheels can damage workpieces or can have thepotential to cause injury. In yet another example, abrading tools can beused improperly, which can result in excessive use of bonded abrasivewheels, damage to abrading tools or workpieces, potential injury toworkers, or the like. Furthermore, abrading tools and associatedconsumable abrasive products including bonded abrasive wheels arefrequently stolen. In still another example, over time workersfrequently develop an intuitive sense of when a workpiece is of desiredquality or when the bonded abrasive wheel is wearing out. However, arobot using the abrading tool may not acquire such an intuitive sense orneeds to obtain additional data to enable machine learning to beutilized. In another example, consumable abrasive products, includingbonded abrasive wheels are consumed, and therefore, accurate planningand managing of inventory of consumable abrasive products is desirable.

According to one aspect of this disclosure, apparatuses and methods aredisclosed that allow for embedding of circuits, such as circuits thatfacilitate communication within consumable abrasive products, andspecifically, within bonded abrasive wheels. Typically, with bondedabrasive wheels, the high heat and/or pressure required in forming (i.e.bonding) such wheels have in the past negated or strongly discouragedthe use of embedded circuits because of the high likelihood of failureof such circuits during the forming process. However, the presentinventors have recognized various constructs, methods and techniquesthat have greatly increased the likelihood of the circuits surviving theforming process.

According to another aspect of this disclosure, a system is disclosedthat includes communication-equipped abrading tools,communication-equipped consumable abrasive products (CAPs)—here bondedabrasive wheels and/or communication-equipped workpieces. As describedherein, in some examples, the abrading tool can read information fromthe bonded abrasive wheel and, in some cases, can send information tovarious locations including the bonded abrasive wheel for storage in adata storage device (memory). The data storage device can be located invarious places including the cloud, within or on the abrading tool(e.g., in a memory of the abrading tool), within or on a robotic device(e.g., in a memory of the robotic device), etc. Conversely, in someexamples, the bonded abrasive wheel can send information to the abradingtool, receive data from the abrading tool, and store data based on thereceived data. Furthermore, in some examples, the abrading tool sendsand/or receives data from a computing system that stores and retrievesinformation from the data storage device. Thus, the data storage devicecan comprise a database according to some examples. In some examples,the bonded abrasive wheel sends and/or receives data from the computingsystem that stores and retrieves information from the database.

As described in detail below, such communication and storage of data canhelp to address various challenges associated with abrading tools andassociated CAPs. These challenges include, but are not limited to,safety challenges, quality challenges and use challenges. For instance,the systems disclosed herein can enable the collection of vibrationdosimetry data for individual workers. Some examples of this disclosurecan reduce the likelihood of using CAPs in a manner that would produce apoor-quality or undesired quality workpiece. Some examples of thisdisclosure can reduce the chances of using damaged CAPs. Furthermore,some examples of this disclosure can help to prevent improper use ofabrading tools and associated CAPs. Some examples of this disclosure canreduce the potential of injury. Additionally, some examples of thisdisclosure can help to prevent theft of abrading tools and associatedCAPs.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example system 2 formonitoring abrading tools, CAPs (e.g., a bonded abrasive wheel) and/orworkpieces, in accordance with one or more techniques of thisdisclosure. In the example of FIG. 1, system 2 includes a computingsystem 4, a data storage device 6, an abrading tool 8, a workpiece 9, aconsumable abrasive product (CAP) 10 (here a bonded abrasive wheel), anda user identification (ID) 22. As depicted by arrow 12, computing system4 can read and write data to the data storage device 6, which cancomprise a database. Additionally, as depicted by arrow 14, thecomputing system 4 can communicate with the abrading tool 8.Furthermore, as depicted by arrow 16, the computing system 4 cancommunicate with the CAP 10. As depicted by arrow 17, the computingsystem 4 can communicate with the workpiece 9. Additionally, as depictedby arrow 18A, abrading tool 8 can communicate with CAP 10. The abradingtool 8 can communicate with the workpiece 9 as indicated by arrow 18B.Furthermore, as depicted by arrow 24, the computing system 4 cancommunicate with user ID 22. Additionally, as depicted by arrow 26, theabrading tool 8 can communicate with user ID 22. Communication betweenone or more of the system 2 components can be facilitated by acommunication unit (indicated by arrows 14, 16, 17, 18A, 24 and/or 26).The system 2 can include a sensor(s) 19 that can be implanted in oradjacent one or more of the abrading tool 8, workpiece 9 and CAP 10.

Thus, system 2 optionally includes one or more of the data storagedevice 6, the computing system 4, the abrading tool 8, the workpiece 9,the CAP 10, the user ID 22 and the sensor 19. The CAP 10 can beattachable to and detachable from the abrading tool 8. The user ID 22can comprise user identification information, and the computing system 4can comprise one or more computing devices configured to receive firstdata and store second data in the data storage device 6. In thedisclosed example, the second data can be based on the first data. Forinstance, the second data can be the same as the first data ordetermined in various ways using the first data.

As previously discussed, in one example the computing system 4 canreceive the first data from the communication unit regarding the sensor19. The first data can be indicative of at least one operating parameterof one or more of the abrading tool 8, the CAP 10 and the workpiece 9.

In some examples, the first data comprises data received from abradingtool 8. In some instances, the first data is based on the sensor(s) 19in, on or adjacent the abrading tool 8. Furthermore, in some examples,the first data comprises data received from and regarding the CAP 10and/or the workpiece 9. As described elsewhere in this disclosure, thefirst data can be based on the sensor(s) 19 in or on the CAP 10 and/orthe workpiece 9. Additionally, in some examples, the first data cancomprise user identification information from user ID 22.

In examples of this disclosure, the computing system 4, the abradingtool 8, the workpiece 9, the CAP 10, and the user ID 22 can communicatevarious types of data, in various ways, at various times, and inresponse to various events. For instance, in some examples, the CAP 10can send to the abrading tool 8 and/or the computing system 4 one ormore of: use data, quality data, safety data other types of dataregarding CAP 10. Use data can include a manufacture data of the CAP 10(a type of CAP), indication the abrading tool 8 is coupled to the CAP10, a type of backing used for the CAP 10, a duration of use, a date andtime of use, and product authentication data. Use, safety and qualitydata can include sensor data (e.g., wear, maximum rotations per minute(RPM), other RPM related data, temperature, pressure, force, torque)measured by the sensor(s) 19 generated during usage, or other types ofdata regarding CAP 10.

In some examples, the user ID 22 can send to abrading tool 8, the CAP 10and/or computing system 4 the user identification information. In someinstances, the CAP 10 can communicate data indicating whether the CAP 10has been, is or can potentially be damaged (this data is included in thesafety data discussed herein). In some examples, certain data (e.g.,manufacture date, maximum recommended RPM) can be stored on or withinthe CAP 10 prior to initial use of CAP 10.

In some examples, the CAP 10 receives, from the abrading tool 8, theworkpiece 9 and/or the computing system 4, one or more of the use data,quality data and/or safety data discussed above (e.g., CAP usage time,an operator identifier, operator usage time, abrasive wear state, dataenabling dosimetry and wear reporting, and the like). In some examples,certain data (e.g., usage time, operator identification) can begenerated during use of the CAP 10, written to the data storage device 6(which can be coupled to or positioned within the CAP 10), and thensubsequently read from the data storage device 6 (which can be coupledto or positioned within the CAP 10).

In some examples, the abrading tool 8 and/or the workpiece 9 receives,from the CAP 10 (the other of the abrading tool 8 and/or workpiece 9)and/or the computing system 4, one or more of the use data, quality dataand/or safety data discussed above (e.g., usage time, an operatoridentifier, operator usage time, finish imparted to the workpiece, dataenabling dosimetry and wear reporting, and the like). In some examples,certain data (e.g., usage time, operator identification) can begenerated during use of the abrading tool 8, written to the data storagedevice 6 (which can be coupled to or positioned within the abrading tool8 such as within the memory), and then subsequently read from the datastorage device 6 (which can be coupled to or positioned within theabrading tool 8 such as within the memory). In some examples, theworkpiece 9 can include sensor(s) 19 from which sensor data regardinguse data, quality data and/or safety data is derived.

Computing system 4 can comprise one or more computing devices, such aspersonal computers, server devices, mainframe computers, and other typesof devices. The data storage device 6 comprises the database with anorganized collection of data. The data storage device 6 can beimplemented in various ways. For example, the data storage device 6 cancomprise one or more relational databases such as a quasi-logarithmicdatabase discussed in reference to later of the FIGURES, object-orienteddatabases, data cubes, and so on. Although FIG. 1 shows the data storagedevice 6 as a single database, data described in the disclosure as beingstored in the data storage device 6 can be distributed across one ormore separate databases, the cloud, etc. These database/databases can bestored on non-transitory computer readable data storage media.

The CAP 10, the workpiece 9 and/or the abrading tool 8 can communicatein various ways that can be facilitated by the communication unit (orindeed via multiple communication units). For example, the CAP 10 canhave the communication unit mounted therein or mounted thereto. Thecommunication unit in this case can be a Radio Frequency Identifier(RFID) or Near Field Communication (NFC) interface (i.e., a tag). FIGS.1B-16 provide further examples of the communication unit comprising acircuit (RFID or NFC) that can be embedded within a bonded abrasivewheel.

In some examples, the abrading tool 8 can have the communication unitmounted therein or mounted thereto. In such cases, this communicationunit can be RFID or NFC reader, configured to read data from and/orwrite data to the RFID or NFC interface of the CAP 10 when the CAP 10 isbrought sufficiently close to the abrading tool 8. Thus, in thisexample, the CAP 10 and the abrading tool 8 can communicate without theuse of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or other similar wireless technologies.

In some examples, the communication unit can use energy harvestingtechniques to derive power needed for charging, communication, sensing,data storage, and other operations. These techniques can be applied fromexternal to the CAP 10, such as from the abrading tool 8.

The CAP 10 can have a communication unit, such as an RFID or NFC tag. Inthis example, a tag reading device, such as a fixed location device orwand, can read data from the communication unit mounted on or within theCAP 10. The tag reading device can send the data to the computing system4. In another example, a mobile device 20 such as shown in FIG. 1 (suchas a worker's mobile phone) can read data from the communication unitand send the data to the computing system 4 via a communicationsnetwork. In some examples, mobile device 20 can perform some or all ofthe functionality described in this disclosure with respect to thecomputing system 4. Indeed, the mobile device 20 can receive alerts,notifications, etc. in some cases of certain events (e.g., anotification that the CAP 10 is in an unsafe condition and is subject tobreakage or possible breakage). Thus, in some examples, thecommunication network used by the communication unit(s) can include theInternet, a cellular data network, a Wi-Fi network, and/or another typeof communication networks.

The user ID 22 and the abrading tool 8 can communicate in various ways.For example, the user ID 22 can utilize a communication unit, such as aRadio Frequency Identifier (RFID) or Near Field Communication (NFC)interface (i.e., tag). In some examples, the abrading tool 8 can utilizethe communication unit, such as an RFID or NFC reader, configured toread data from and/or write data to the RFID or NFC interface of theuser ID 22 when user ID 22 is brought sufficiently close to the abradingtool 8. Thus, in this example, the CAP 10 and the abrading tool 8 cancommunicate without Wi-Fi or Bluetooth infrastructure. In some examples,the communication unit of the user ID 22 can use energy harvestingtechniques as previously discussed herein. In some examples, the user ID22 can utilize an optical code as the communication unit. The opticalcode can comprise a machine-readable representation of data, such as abarcode or Quick Response (QR) code. The abrading tool 8 or anotherdevice can receive data from the user ID 22 by reading the optical code,and such data can allow the abrading tool 8 to become operable, forexample.

The user ID 22 and the computing system 4 can communicate in variousways via the communication unit (indicated by arrow 24). For example,the user ID 22 can utilize an RFID or NFC tag. In this example, a tagreading device, such as a fixed location device or wand, can read datafrom the communication unit of the user ID 22. The tag reading devicecan send the data to the computing system 4 via a communicationsnetwork. In another example, the mobile device 20 (such as a worker'smobile phone) can read data from the communication unit of user ID 22and send the data to the computing system 4 via a communicationsnetwork. In yet another example, the mobile device 20 can comprise theuser ID 22 and can send the data to the computing system 4 via thecommunications network. In some examples, the mobile device 20 canperform some or all of the functionality described in this disclosurewith respect to the computing system 4. The communication networkutilized can include the Internet, a cellular data network, a Wi-Finetwork, and/or another type of communication networks.

The abrading tool 8 and the computing system 4 can communicate invarious ways. For example, the abrading tool 8 can utilize thecommunication unit, such as an RFID or NFC interface (e.g., an RFID orNFC tag). In this example, a tag reading device, such as a fixedlocation device or wand, can read data from the communication unit ofthe abrading tool 8 and send the data to the computing system 4 via acommunications network. In some examples, the abrading tool 8 canutilize a wireless network interface, such as a Wi-Fi interface,Bluetooth interface, cellular data network interface (e.g., a 4G LTEinterface), and/or another type of wireless network interface. In suchexamples, the abrading tool 8 can use the wireless network interface tosend and/or receive data from the computing system 4. In some examples,abrading tool 8 can use a communication unit that is a wire-basedcommunication interface, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interfaceor another type of interface. In such examples, the abrading tool 8 canuse the wire-based communications interface to send and/or receive datafrom the computing system 4. For instance, the abrading tool 8 can use aUSB connection with another device, such as the mobile device 20, thatis configured to communicate with the computing system 4. In thisexample, the abrading tool 8 can communicate with the computing system 4while connected to the mobile device 20. In some examples, the abradingtool 8 can utilize an internal communication bus, such as a serialperipheral interface (SPI) bus or I2C bus. In such examples, theabrading tool 8 can use the internal communication bus to send and/orreceive data from the computing system 4.

Furthermore, in some examples, abrading tool 8 has a communication unitthat communicates with the computing system 4 via hub wireless hardware.The hub wireless hardware can comprise a device located at a worksite towhich multiple assets (e.g., tools, personal protection equipment,consumable products, etc.) communicate. In this example, the hubwireless hardware can communicate via another network (e.g., theinternet) to the computing system 4.

In some examples, the abrading tool 8, the workpiece 9, and/or the CAP10 can communicate with the computing system 4 via the mobile device 20.For instance, the abrading tool 8 can utilize a communication unit, suchas an RFID or NFC tag, Bluetooth interface, or other short-rangewireless communication interface. In this example, the mobile device 20can relay data between computing system 4 and abrading tool 8.

In some examples, the communication unit of the abrading tool 8 does notcommunicate directly with the communication unit of the CAP 10. Forinstance, the abrading tool 8 can send data to the computing system 4and the computing system 4, in response, can send data to thecommunication unit and/or the data storage device 6 housed within theCAP 10. Similarly, the CAP 10 can send data to the computing system 4and the computing system 4, in response, can send data to the abradingtool 8 (e.g., to memory of the abrading tool 8). In some examples, themobile device 20 can read data from the CAP 10 and, in response, senddata to the abrading tool 8. Similarly, the abrading tool 8 can senddata to the mobile device 20 and the mobile device 20 can send the datato the CAP 10. In further examples, the mobile device 20 can read datafrom the workpiece 9, and in response, send data to the abrading tool 8and/or the CAP 10. Similarly, the workpiece 9 can send data to themobile device 20 and the mobile device 20 can send the data to the CAP10 and/or the abrading tool 8.

In some examples, communication between the abrading tool 8, theworkpiece 9 and/or the CAP 10 and computing system 4 can occurasynchronously. For instance, data from the computing system 4 can bestored at an intermediary device (e.g., the mobile device 20, wirelesshub hardware, an RFID or NFC reader, etc.) until a communication linkbetween the abrading tool 8, the workpiece 9 and/or the CAP 10 and theintermediary device is established. When the communication link isestablished, the intermediary device transmits or receives the data toor from the abrading tool 8, the workpiece 9 and/or the CAP 10. Asimilar asynchronous communication style can be used for communicationbetween CAP 10 and computing system 4.

In some examples, abrading tool 8, the workpiece 9, and/or the CAP 10,and the user ID 22 can communicate with the computing system 4 in asimilar way. For example, the abrading tool 8, the CAP 10, and the userID 22 can all utilize a same communication unit, such as an RFID or NFCtag, while the computing system 4 can include or be communicativelycoupled, such as through a USB cable, to a tag reading device, such asan RFID or NFC tag reader. In this example, the tag reading device, suchas a fixed location device or wand, can read data from the communicationunit of abrading tool 8, the workpiece 9, the CAP 10, and/or user ID 22.The tag reading device can send the data to the computing system 4 via acommunications network. In another example, the mobile device 20 (suchas a worker's mobile phone) can read data from the communication unit ofthe abrading tool 8, the workpiece 9, the CAP 10, and/or the user ID 22and send the data to the computing system 4 via a communicationsnetwork. The communication network can include the Internet, a cellulardata network, a Wi-Fi network, and/or another type of communicationnetwork as previously discussed.

In some examples, the computing system 4 can mine data stored in thedata storage device 6. For instance, the computing system 4 can minedata in the data storage device 6 for data that is then report to andreceive fed back from appropriate entities, e.g., safety or compliancemanager, production foreman, maintenance manager, and so on such a via atext or another alert notification method. In some examples, thecomputing system 4 can associate the reported data with an urgencylevel. For instance, reporting that the abrading tool 8 is beingoperated beyond recommended Rotation Per Minute (RPM) level can bedesignated as more urgent than reporting that a sanding disk inventoryis running low. The RPM reporting can be a safety, compliance, orproductivity issue which might need to be reported as soon as possibleto the safety officer or shop foreman; low inventory can be reported toa purchasing agent with less urgency.

In further examples, the computing system 4 can be configured to onlystore data to the data storage device 6 in certain instances when thecomputing system 4 identifies if the at least one operating parameterfalls outside a predetermined operating parameter range. This can reducepower and memory burden for the system, for example. In such instances,data can be written to the data storage device 6, such operatingparameter range(s) can include, but is not limited to: revolutions perminute of the abrading tool or the consumable abrasive product, a typeof the abrading tool; a type of the consumable abrasive product; a forceapplied on one or more of the abrading tool, the consumable abrasiveproduct and the workpiece; a temperature of one or more of the abradingtool, the consumable abrasive product and the workpiece; a finishimparted to the workpiece; a duration of operation; a type of backingused for the consumable abrasive product; a type of attachment used tocouple the abrading tool to the consumable abrasive product; an identityof a tool operator; a location of the system; a date and time of use;and an indication the abrading tool is coupled with the consumableabrasive product.

Thus, for example, if the revolutions per minute maximum for the CAP 10is exceeded, data regarding such event/operation is written to the datastorage device 6. In another example, if the force applied on one ormore of the abrading tool, the consumable abrasive product and theworkpiece exceeds a maximum recommended force (or indeed is less than arecommended force) data regarding such event/operation is written to thedata storage device 6. In yet a further example, if the temperature ofone or more of the abrading tool, the consumable abrasive product andthe workpiece exceeds a maximum recommended temperature data regardingsuch event/operation is written to the data storage device 6.

In some examples, the computing system 4 can be configured to only storedata to the data storage device 6 in certain instances where thecomputing system 4 identifies the CAP 10 has been damaged or is about tobe potentially damaged based upon the at least one operating parameterfalling outside the predetermined operating parameter range. Thus, inresponse to receiving data indicating that the CAP 10 has been damagedor is about to be potentially damaged, the computing system 4 can beconfigured to store the data in the data storage device 6. Furthermore,in some examples, in response to receiving data indicating that the CAP10 has been damaged or is about to be potentially damaged, the computingsystem 4 can be configured to perform one or more of: generate awarning, send instructions to the abrading tool or a robotic deviceconfigured to operate the abrading tool, prevent use of the abradingtool while the consumable abrasive product is attached to the abradingtool, and store the data indicating that the consumable abrasive producthas been damaged or is about to be potentially damaged as the seconddata. The data indicating that the CAP 10 has been damaged or is aboutto be potentially damaged can be derived from one or more of a voltagemeasurement from a crack detection system, the temperature theconsumable abrasive product, the revolutions per minute of theconsumable abrasive product and the force on the consumable abrasiveproduct as is further elaborated upon herein.

Additionally, in further examples, the computing system 4 can mineand/or analyze data in the data storage device 6 for information onproductivity, security, inventory, safety, quality or other topics. Forexample, the computing system 4 can generate various types of reports onthese topics. Productivity: reporting on tool RPM, runtime, force, etc.,basically how the tool and abrasive is being used. Security: hasabrading tool 8 disappeared? Inventory: is the site running low on aspecific product, such as CAPs? Computing system 4 can automaticallyplace orders. Safety: is PPE being used correctly? Is a worker using theproper abrading tool? Is the worker using an abrading tool properly?Quality: is a desired finish to the workpiece being achieved?

Examples of this disclosure can be used separately or in combination.Some examples of the disclosure can omit certain components of thesystem 2, for example, the computing system 4, the data storage device6, the sensor 19, the communication unit, the mobile device 20, and anyof the abrading tool 8, the workpiece 9, the CAP 10, and/or the user ID22. Examples of this disclosure can be configured in any operableconfiguration. Certain components such as the sensor 19 and thecommunication unit(s) can comprise a single component, for example. Inanother example, while the computing system 4 and the data storagedevice 6 have been described as separate units, either or both can bepart of the same network. Similarly, the computing system 4 and/or thecommunication unit(s) described need not be coupled to or part of any ofthe abrading tool 8, the CAP 10, the mobile device 20, but can belocated on an external device, such as in proximity to a workstation oron a local server or remote server, for example.

Further disclosure regarding systems, methods and techniques formonitoring abrading tools, CAPs and workpieces can be found in co-ownedand co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application, entitled “ABRASIVEDATA RECORDER SYSTEM”, filed on the even day as the present application,the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show an example of a bonded abrasive wheel 100 accordingto an example of the present application. The bonded abrasive wheel 100(shown as a depressed-center bonded abrasive wheel) has a depressedcentral portion 104 encircling a central hub 190 that extends from anabrading surface 124 (also called a front surface) to a back surface 126(also called an opposing surface). The central hub 190 can comprise abushing 192, which can be used, for example, for attachment to a powerdriven tool (not shown). In some examples, the bushing 192 can beconstructed so as to minimize interference with the circuits describedherein. Thus, for example, the bushing 192 can be comprised of anon-metallic material (e.g., a polymer), for example. In other examplesthe bushing 192 can be split and/or may not extend entirely through thebonded abrasive wheel 100. An abrasive layer 160 comprises abrasiveparticles 170 (e.g., crushed but in other examples shaped) retained inbinder 175. The abrasive layer 160 optionally further comprisesreinforcing material 115 adjacent to the abrading surface 124. Theabrasive layer 160 optionally further comprises a secondary reinforcingmaterial 116 adjacent to the back surface 126.

The bonded abrasive wheel 100 has a rotational axis 195 around which thewheel rotates in use, and which is generally perpendicular to the discof the bonded abrasive wheel.

The layer 160 comprises a curable composition that includes the binder175 that retains abrasive particles 170. The binder 175 may be inorganic(e.g., vitreous) or organic resin-based, and is typically formed from arespective binder precursor.

Suitable binders may be vitreous or organic, for example, as describedhereinbelow. Organic binders (e.g., crosslinked organic polymers) aregenerally prepared by curing (i.e., crosslinking) a resinous organicbinder precursor. Examples of suitable organic binder precursors includethermally-curable resins and radiation-curable resins, which may becured, for example, thermally and/or by exposure to radiation. Exemplaryorganic binder precursors include glues, phenolic resins, aminoplastresins, urea-formaldehyde resins, melamine-formaldehyde resins, urethaneresins, acrylic resins (e.g., aminoplast resins having unsaturatedgroups, acrylated urethanes, acrylated epoxy resins, acrylatedisocyanurates), acrylic monomer/oligomer resins, epoxy resins (includingbismaleimide and fluorene-modified epoxy resins), isocyanurate resins,an combinations thereof. Curatives such as thermal initiators,catalysts, photoinitiators, hardeners, and the like may be added to theorganic binder precursor, typically selected and in an effective amountaccording to the resin system chosen. Exemplary organic binders can befound in U.S. Pat. No. 5,766,277 (DeVoe et al.).

Typically, organic binders are prepared by crosslinking (e.g., at leastpartially curing and/or polymerizing) an organic binder precursor.Suitable organic binder precursors for the shaped abrasive compositesmay be the same as, or different from, organic binder precursors thatcan be used in the layer described hereinabove. During the manufactureof the structured abrasive article, the organic binder precursor may beexposed to an energy source which aids in the initiation ofpolymerization (typically including crosslinking) of the organic binderprecursor. Examples of energy sources include thermal energy andradiation energy which includes electron beam, ultraviolet light, andvisible light. In the case of an electron beam energy source, curativeis not necessarily required because the electron beam itself generatesfree radicals.

After this polymerization process, the organic binder precursor isconverted into a solidified organic binder. Alternatively, for athermoplastic organic binder precursor, during the manufacture of theabrasive article the thermoplastic organic binder precursor is cooled toa degree that results in solidification of the organic binder precursor.

Organic binders are contemplated in amounts of from 5 to 50 percent byweight, more preferably 10 to 40 percent by weight, and even morepreferably 15 to 40 percent by weight, based on the total weight of therespective first and secondary abrasive layers, however other amountsmay also be used. The organic binder is typically formed by at leastpartially curing a corresponding organic binder precursor.

There are two main classes of polymerizable resins that may preferablybe included in the organic binder precursor, condensation polymerizableresins and addition polymerizable resins. Addition polymerizable resinsare advantageous because they are readily cured by exposure to radiationenergy. Addition polymerized resins can polymerize, for example, througha cationic mechanism or a free-radical mechanism. Depending upon theenergy source that is utilized and the binder precursor chemistry, acuring agent, initiator, or catalyst may be useful to help initiate thepolymerization. Examples of typical binder precursors include phenolicresins, urea-formaldehyde resins, aminoplast resins, urethane resins,melamine formaldehyde resins, cyanate resins, isocyanurate resins,(meth)acrylate resins (e.g., (meth)acrylated urethanes, (meth)acrylatedepoxies, ethylenically-unsaturated free-radically polymerizablecompounds, aminoplast derivatives having pendant alpha, beta-unsaturatedcarbonyl groups, isocyanurate derivatives having at least one pendantacrylate group, and isocyanate derivatives having at least one pendantacrylate group) vinyl ethers, epoxy resins, and mixtures andcombinations thereof. As used herein, the term “(meth)acryl” encompassesacryl and methacryl.

Phenolic resin is an exemplary useful organic binder precursor, and maybe used in powder form and/or liquid state. Organic binder precursorsthat can be cured (i.e., polymerized and/or crosslinked) to form usefulorganic binders include, for example, one or more phenolic resins(including novolac and/or resole phenolic resins) one or more epoxyresins, one or more urea-formaldehyde binders, one or more polyesterresins, one or more polyimide resins, one or more rubbers, one or morepolybenzimidazole resins, one or more shellacs, one or more acrylicmonomers and/or oligomers, and combinations thereof. The organic binderprecursor(s) may be combined with additional components such as, forexample, curatives, hardeners, catalysts, initiators, colorants,antistatic agents, grinding aids, and lubricants.

Conditions for curing each of the foregoing are well-known to those ofordinary skill in the art.

Useful phenolic resins include novolac and resole phenolic resins.Novolac phenolic resins are characterized by being acid-catalyzed andhaving a ratio of formaldehyde to phenol of less than one, typicallybetween 0.5:1 and 0.8:1. Resole phenolic resins are characterized bybeing alkaline catalyzed and having a ratio of formaldehyde to phenol ofgreater than or equal to one, typically from 1:1 to 3:1. Novolac andresole phenolic resins may be chemically modified (e.g., by reactionwith epoxy compounds), or they may be unmodified. Exemplary acidiccatalysts suitable for curing phenolic resins include sulfuric,hydrochloric, phosphoric, oxalic, and p-toluenesulfonic acids. Alkalinecatalysts suitable for curing phenolic resins include sodium hydroxide,barium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, organicamines, or sodium carbonate.

Phenolic resins are well-known and readily available from commercialsources. Examples of commercially available novolac resins include DUREZ1364, a two-step, powdered phenolic resin (marketed by DurezCorporation, Addison, Tex., under the trade designation VARCUM (e.g.,29302), or HEXION AD5534 RESIN (marketed by Hexion Specialty Chemicals,Inc., Louisville, Ky.).

Examples of commercially available resole phenolic resins useful inpractice of the present disclosure include those marketed by DurezCorporation under the trade designation VARCUM (e.g., 29217, 29306,29318, 29338, 29353); those marketed by Ashland Chemical Co., Bartow,Fla. under the trade designation AEROFENE (e.g., AEROFENE 295); andthose marketed by Kangnam Chemical Company Ltd., Seoul, South Koreaunder the trade designation “PHENOLITE” (e.g., PHENOLITE TD-2207).

Curing temperatures of thermally curable organic binder precursors willvary with the material chosen and wheel design. Selection of suitableconditions is within the capability of one of ordinary skill in the art.Exemplary conditions for a phenolic binder may include an appliedpressure of about 20 tons per 4 inches diameter (224 kg/cm²) at roomtemperature followed by heating at temperatures up to about 185° C. forsufficient time to cure the organic binder material precursor.

The abrasive particles 170 contemplated for use herein can compriseeither shaped or non-shaped (e.g., crushed) particles of variousmaterial(s) including, but not limited to metals, ceramics, composites,etc. The abrasive particles 170, if ceramic, can comprise any ceramicmaterial (preferably a ceramic abrasive material), for example, selectedfrom among the ceramic materials listed below, and combinations thereof.Ceramic materials contemplated can include, for example, alumina (e.g.,fused aluminum oxide, heat treated aluminum oxide, white fused aluminumoxide, ceramic aluminum oxide materials such as those commerciallyavailable as 3M CERAMIC ABRASIVE GRAIN from 3M Company of St. Paul,Minn.), black silicon carbide, green silicon carbide, titanium diboride,boron carbide, tungsten carbide, titanium carbide, cubic boron nitride,garnet, fused alumina zirconia, sol-gel derived ceramics (e.g., aluminaceramics doped with chromia, ceria, zirconia, titania, silica, and/ortin oxide), silica (e.g., quartz, glass beads, glass bubbles and glassfibers), feldspar, or flint. Examples of sol-gel derived crushed ceramicparticles can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 4,314,827 (Leitheiser et al.),U.S. Pat. No. 4,623,364 (Cottringer et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 4,744,802(Schwabel), U.S. Pat. No. 4,770,671 (Monroe et al.); and U.S. Pat. No.4,881,951 (Monroe et al.). Further details concerning methods of makingsol-gel-derived ceramic particles suitable or use as ceramic bodies canbe found in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,314,827 (Leitheiser), U.S.Pat. No. 5,152,917 (Pieper et al.), U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,591 (Celikkayaet al.), U.S. Pat. No. 5,435,816 (Spurgeon et al.), U.S. Pat. No.5,672,097 (Hoopman et al.), U.S. Pat. No. 5,946,991 (Hoopman et al.),U.S. Pat. No. 5,975,987 (Hoopman et al.), and U.S. Pat. No. 6,129,540(Hoopman et al.), and in U.S. Publ. Pat. Appln. Nos. 2009/0165394 A1(Culler et al.) and 2009/0169816 A1 (Erickson et al.).

Shaped abrasive particles and precisely-shaped abrasive particles may beprepared by a molding process using sol-gel technology as described inU.S. Pat. No. 5,201,916 (Berg); U.S. Pat. No. 5,366,523 (Rowenhorst (Re35,570)); and U.S. Pat. No. 5,984,988 (Berg). U.S. Pat. No. 8,034,137(Erickson et al.) describes alumina particles that have been formed in aspecific shape, then crushed to form shards that retain a portion oftheir original shape features. In some embodiments, the ceramic bodiesare precisely-shaped (i.e., the ceramic bodies have shapes that are atleast partially determined by the shapes of cavities in a productiontool used to make them).

Exemplary shapes of abrasive particles if shaped include cylindrical,vermiform, hourglass-shaped, bow tie shaped, truncated pyramids (e.g.,3-, 4-, 5-, or 6-sided truncated pyramids), truncated cones, and prisms(e.g., 3-, 4-, 5-, or 6-sided prisms), and crushed ceramic abrasiveparticles. Useful ceramic bodies may have an average aspect ratio (i.e.,length to thickness ratio) of at least 2, in some embodiments at least4, in some embodiments at least 5, and in some embodiments at least 8.Useful ceramic platelets include triangular ceramic platelets (e.g.,triangular prismatic ceramic platelets and truncated triangular ceramicplatelets).

Details concerning such shaped ceramic particles and methods for theirpreparation can be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 8,142,531(Adefris et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 8,142,891 (Culler et al.); and U.S. Pat.No. 8,142,532 (Erickson et al.); and in U.S. Pat. Appl. Publ. Nos.2012/0227333 (Adefris et al.); 2013/0040537 (Schwabel et al.); and2013/0125477 (Adefris).

Other contemplated material for the abrasive particles 170 include thoseof fused aluminum oxide, heat treated aluminum oxide, white fusedaluminum oxide, ceramic aluminum oxide materials such as thosecommercially available under the trade designation 3M CERAMIC ABRASIVEGRAIN from 3M Company of St. Paul, Minn., black silicon carbide, greensilicon carbide, titanium diboride, boron carbide, tungsten carbide,titanium carbide, cubic boron nitride, garnet, fused alumina zirconia,sol-gel derived abrasive particles, iron oxide, chromia, ceria,zirconia, titania, silicates, tin oxide, silica (such as quartz, glassbeads, glass bubbles and glass fibers) silicates (such as talc, clays(e.g., montmorillonite), feldspar, mica, calcium silicate, calciummetasilicate, sodium aluminosilicate, sodium silicate), flint, andemery. Examples of sol-gel derived abrasive particles can be found inU.S. Pat. No. 4,314,827 (Leitheiser et al.), U.S. Pat. No. 4,623,364(Cottringer et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 4,744,802 (Schwabel), U.S. Pat. No.4,770,671 (Monroe et al.); and U.S. Pat. No. 4,881,951 (Monroe et al.)

Abrasive particles used in the bonded abrasive wheels of the presentdisclosure, may be independently sized according to an abrasivesindustry recognized specified nominal grade. Exemplary abrasive industryrecognized grading standards include those promulgated by ANSI (AmericanNational Standards Institute), FEPA (Federation of European Producers ofAbrasives), and JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard). Such industryaccepted grading standards include, for example: ANSI 4, ANSI 6, ANSI 8,ANSI 16, ANSI 24, ANSI 30, ANSI 36, ANSI 40, ANSI 50, ANSI 60, ANSI 80,ANSI 100, ANSI 120, ANSI 150, ANSI 180, ANSI 220, ANSI 240, ANSI 280,ANSI 320, ANSI 360, ANSI 400, and ANSI 600; FEPA P8, FEPA P12, FEPA P16,FEPA P24, FEPA P30, FEPA P36, FEPA P40, FEPA P50, FEPA P60, FEPA P80,FEPA P100, FEPA P120, FEPA P150, FEPA P180, FEPA P220, FEPA P320, FEPAP400, FEPA P500, FEPA P600, FEPA P800, FEPA P1000, FEPA P1200; FEPA F8,FEPA F12, FEPA F16, and FEPA F24; and JIS 8, JIS 12, JIS 16, JIS 24, JIS36, JIS 46, JIS 54, JIS 60, JIS 80, JIS 100, JIS 150, JIS 180, JIS 220,JIS 240, JIS 280, JIS 320, JIS 360, JIS 400, JIS 400, JIS 600, JIS 800,JIS 1000, JIS 1500, JIS 2500, JIS 4000, JIS 6000, JIS 8000, and JIS10,000. More typically, the crushed aluminum oxide particles and thenon-seeded sol-gel derived alumina-based abrasive particles areindependently sized to ANSI 60 and 80, or FEPA F36, F46, F54 and F60 orFEPA P60 and P80 grading standards.

Alternatively, the abrasive particles can be graded to a nominalscreened grade using U.S.A. Standard Test Sieves conforming to ASTM E-11“Standard Specification for Wire Cloth and Sieves for Testing Purposes”.ASTM E-11 prescribes the requirements for the design and construction oftesting sieves using a medium of woven wire cloth mounted in a frame forthe classification of materials according to a designated particle size.A typical designation may be represented as −18+20 meaning that theshaped ceramic abrasive particles pass through a test sieve meeting ASTME-11 specifications for the number 18 sieve and are retained on a testsieve meeting ASTM E-11 specifications for the number 20 sieve. In oneembodiment, the shaped ceramic abrasive particles have a particle sizesuch that most of the particles pass through an 18 mesh test sieve andcan be retained on a 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 mesh test sieve. Invarious embodiments, the shaped ceramic abrasive particles can have anominal screened grade comprising: −18+20, −20/+25, −25+30, −30+35,−35+40, 5−40+45, −45+50, −50+60, −60+70, −70/+80, −80+100, −100+120,−120+140, −140+170, −170+200, −200+230, −230+270, −270+325, −325+400,−400+450, −450+500, or −500+635. Alternatively, a custom mesh size couldbe used such as −90+100.

Abrasive particles may be uniformly or non-uniformly distributedthroughout the primary abrasive layer and several types of abrasiveparticles can be used in combination. For example, abrasive particleswith sharper edges and/or larger can be distributed in the bondedabrasive wheel so as to be concentrated toward the from outer surfacesthereof. Smaller and/or particles having less edges or less sharp edgescan be concentrated near the circuits described subsequently. A centerportion of the bonded abrasive wheel may contain a lesser amount ofabrasive particles relative to other locations. The abrasive particlesmay be homogenously distributed among each other, however, such is notalways the case.

The abrasive layer may contain additional components such as, forexample, filler particles, subject to weight range requirements of theother constituents being met. Filler particles may be added to occupyspace and/or provide porosity. Porosity enables the bonded abrasivewheel to shed used or worn abrasive particles to expose new or freshabrasive particles. The abrasive layer may have any range of porosity;for example, from about 1 percent to 50 percent, typically 1 percent to40 percent by volume. Examples of fillers include bubbles and beads(e.g., glass, ceramic (alumina), clay, polymeric, metal), cork, gypsum,marble, limestone, flint, silica, aluminum silicate, and combinationsthereof.

Bonded abrasive wheels (and especially depressed-center bonded abrasivewheels) according to the present disclosure preferably have one or moreadditional layers or discs of reinforcing material integrally molded andbonded therein. One layer of reinforcing material is preferably bondedto and situated in between the secondary and primary abrasive layers ofthe wheel. In some embodiments, a central hub portion of the abrasivewheel adjacent the central hub may be further reinforced with a disc offiberglass cloth molded in and bonded to the bottom side of the primaryabrasive layer. As discussed hereinabove, bonded abrasive wheelsaccording to the present disclosure may include one or more reinforcingmaterials (e.g., a woven fabric, a knitted fabric, a nonwoven fabric,and/or a scrim) that reinforces the bonded abrasive wheel. Thereinforcing material may comprise inorganic fibers (e.g., fiberglass)and/or organic fibers such as polyamide fibers, polyester fibers, orpolyimide fibers. In some instances, it may be desirable to includereinforcing staple fibers within the first and/or second organic bindersso that the fibers are homogeneously dispersed throughout the bondedabrasive wheel.

Bonded abrasive wheels according to the present disclosure can be madeby a molding process. During molding, first and second organic binderprecursors, which may be liquid or powdered, or a combination of liquidand powder, is mixed with abrasive particles. In some embodiments, aliquid medium (either curable organic resin or a solvent) is firstapplied to the abrasive particles to wet their outer surface, and thenthe wetted abrasive particles are mixed with a powdered organic binderprecursor. Bonded abrasive wheels according to the present disclosuremay be made, for example, by compression molding, injection molding,and/or transfer molding.

For example, in one exemplary process with aspects partially shown inFIGS. 14 and 16, a mold (reference FIGS. 14 and 16) having acentral-aperture-forming arbor (reference FIG. 16) can be surrounded bya circular cavity in which the center is optionally depressed (e.g., formaking depressed-center or raised-hub wheels). Bonded abrasive wheelsmay be molded by first placing a disc of reinforcing material having acenter hole around the arbor and in contact with the bottom of the mold.Then, spreading a uniform layer of curable composition comprising theabrasive particles, and the organic binder precursor on top of the discof reinforcing material. Next a circuit (construct further shown anddisclosed below) can be added to the mold atop the first layer of thecurable composition. Next, another disc of reinforcing material with acenter hole positioned around the arbor is placed onto the first layerof the curable composition, followed by spreading a second layer of thecurable composition comprising the abrasive particles, and the binderprecursor thereon. This method sandwiches the circuit between the twolayers of curable composition and the two layers of reinforcingmaterial. Lastly, a hub reinforcing disc with a center hole therein isplaced around the arbor and onto the layer of the curable composite, anda top mold plate of the desired shape to either produce thedepressed-center or the straight center hub portion of the wheels, isplaced on top of the layers to form a mold assembly. The mold assemblyis then placed between the platens of either a conventional cold or hotpress. Then the press is actuated to force the mold plate downwardly andcompress the discs and abrasive mixtures together, at a pressure of from1 to 4 tons per square inch, into a self-supporting structure ofpredetermined thickness, diameter and density. After molding the wheelis stripped from the mold and placed in an oven heated (e.g., to atemperature of approximately 175° C. to 200° C. for approximately 36hours) to cure the curable mixture(s) and convert the organic binderprecursor(s) into useful organic binder(s).

Further details regarding the construction of the abrasive grindingwheel can be found in Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) Publication No.WO2018080704, entitled “BONDED ABRASIVE WHEEL AND METHOD OF MAKING THESAME”, filed Oct. 25, 2016, and co-owned by the applicant, the entiredisclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 1B also shows a portion of a circuit 110 comprising an antenna 112embedded within the bonded abrasive wheel 100 adjacent the back surface126, thereof. For the circuit 110 configured for NFC, the antenna 112can be spaced away from either the first grinding surface 124 or theback surface 126 by between 0.1% and 200% percent of the radius ofcurvature of the antenna. Exemplary constructs of the circuit 110 arefurther illustrated in FIGS. 2-13 and 16 and discussed in reference tothose FIGURES. As discussed in FIG. 1, the circuit 110 and the othercircuits discussed herein can be configured to facilitate communicationin various ways to convey or receive data, including data from one ormore sensors (e.g., sensors 19) that are not specifically shown in theremaining FIGS. 2-16.

FIGS. 2 and 2A show an exemplary circuit 200 configured for RFID or NFCcommunication. The circuit 200 can include an antenna 202, an integratedcircuit (IC) 204, a capacitor 206 and leads 208.

As shown the antenna 202 can be operably coupled (electrically connectedin a manner to facilitate the movement of electrical current) to the IC204 via the leads 208. The capacitor 206 can optionally be utilized, andcan be operatively coupled in parallel with the IC 204 to the antenna202 via the leads 208. The IC 204 and/or the capacitor 206 may becoupled to the antenna directly without the use of leads 208 in the formof a leadless package, unpackaged IC, etc. Although shown assubstantially a single loop having a circular substantially constantradius of curvature as described below, in other examples, further loopsand other circuit shapes are contemplated including those that arenon-circular and do not utilize a radius of curvature or have a varyingradius of curvature throughout most/all of their extent.

According to the example of FIGS. 2 and 2A, the antenna 202 canconfigured to communicate with one or more external devices in themanner previously discussed in reference to FIG. 1. The antenna 202 caninclude a first end 210 and a second end 212. The antenna 202 can have aradius of curvature RC about an axis 214 along at least a portionthereof such that the first end 210 can be disposed adjacent to but isspaced from the second end 212. Such spacing between the first end 210and the second end 212 can amount to a distance of less than 0.3 inch inthe case of the example of FIGS. 2 and 2A. The axis 214 can comprise anaxis of symmetry of the antenna 202 according to some examples includingthe example of FIGS. 2 and 2A. In some examples, the axis 214 cansubstantially align with the axis 195 (FIGS. 1A and 1B) of the bondedabrasive wheel. However, in other examples the axis can be offset fromthat of the axis 195.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 2A, the antenna 202 can comprise a singlenon-complete loop with the first end 210 spaced a short distance frombut interfacing with the second end 212. According to one example, theantenna 202 can have a radius of curvature RC of between about 0.5 inchand about 2 inches and can have a width 216 of between about 0.10 inchand about 0.75 inches. Additionally, the width 216 can vary according tothe radius of curvature RC such as to be a ratio thereof. For example,the width 216 can be about 50% of the radius of curvature RC in someexamples. The thickness of the antenna 202 can be greater than 0.001inches thick to about 0.02 inches thick in some examples. However, othergeometries for the antenna 202 are contemplated and can vary dependingupon the application, desired resonant frequency, position of theantenna 202 within the bonded abrasive wheel, the size (e.g., diameter)of the bonded abrasive wheel, and other operational factors. In somecases, it is desirable to have the radius of curvature RC of the antenna202 be sufficiently larger than depressed central portion 104 (FIG. 1A)of the bonded abrasive wheel.

The antenna 202 according to the example of FIGS. 2 and 2A can comprisea metallic foil such as a copper foil, copper alloy foil, aluminum foil,aluminum alloy foil, alloys thereof, or the like. The antenna 202 canalso be constructed of a composite including a polymer foil in somecases. The antenna 202 can be laminated with several foil layerscombined together. For example, an aluminum foil and a polymer film canbe heat laminated together. Suitable polymer films include elastomericpolyurethane, co-polyester, polyimide, polysulfide, silicone orpolyether block amide films. In other embodiments, a material isextruded directly onto a metallic foil forming a substrate layerattached to the metallic foil. For example, a polyurethane resin may beextruded onto a copper foil. In other embodiments, a material, such as aurethane, is solvent coated onto a metallic foil. The metallic foil canbe patterned using conventional wet etching techniques to produce theantenna 202. Alternatively, the antenna 202 can be formed through amilling process or through a die cutting process. Each foil may have athickness in the range of about 0.5 micrometers or about 1 micrometer toabout 100 micrometers or to about 200 micrometers.

According to one example, the antenna 202 can be configured to have aresonance frequency of about 13 MHz (e.g., 13.56 MHz to 14.5 MHz) asthis is commonly used in NFC. It has been found that, in someembodiments, a desired resonance frequency of a reduced-reactanceantenna can be achieved by including one or more stand-alone capacitors(e.g., capacitor 206) connected in parallel with the antenna andarranged in parallel with IC 204. The frequency band at about 13.56 MHzis within a range sometimes referred to as a high frequency (HF) band.The circuit 200 of the present description can have resonancefrequencies in other bands. Suitable bands include, for example, thehigh frequency (HF) band from 3-30 MHz and the low frequency (LF) bandfrom 120-150 kHz and the ultra-high frequency (UHF) bands at about 433MHz, or 865-868 MHz, or 902-928 MHz. Suitable bands also include, forexample, other industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) radio bandssuch as those having frequencies of about 6.78 MHz, 27.12 MHz, or 40.68MHz. The antenna 202 can have a quality factor (Q factor) greater thanabout 35, or greater than about 40, or greater than about 45, or greaterthan about 50. In some embodiments, the antenna may have a Q factor inthe range of about 35 to about 90.

The circuit 200 may have a resonance frequency and can communicate withtransceiver or another device at or about at the resonant frequency.According to one example, the circuit 200 can be configured to operateaccording any RFID standard, such as ISO/IEC 18092, ECMA-340, orECMA-352, for example. Other suitable standards include ISO/IEC 15693,ISO/IEC 14443, ISO/IEC 18000-3, or NFC Forum specifications.

The IC 204 can comprise a micro-chip according to one example configuredto store at least a first data such as instructions. The IC 204 can beconfigured to communicate with other external devices and/or sensor(s)as previously described. In some examples the IC 204 can communicatewith a data storage device (not shown) embedded with or otherwisecoupled to the bonded abrasive wheel. The IC 204 may have an effectivecapacitance less than about 1000 pF, or less than about 500 pF, or lessthan about 200 pF, or less than about 150 pF, or less than about 100 pF,or less than about 50 pF, and may have an effective capacitance greaterthan 1 pF or greater than 5 pF.

Regarding the capacitor 206, this can comprise one or more stand-alonecapacitors that can be electrically connected in parallel with theantenna 202 and the IC 204. The capacitor 206 can have an equivalentcapacitance greater than about 10 pF, or greater than about 100 pF, orgreater than about 500 pF, or greater than about 1 nF, or greater thanabout 2 nF, and may have an equivalent capacitance less than about 1 μFor less than about 10 μF. The capacitor 206 can have an equivalent firstcapacitance and may include a single capacitor having the firstcapacitance or may include a plurality of capacitors electricallyconnected to provide an equivalent capacitance equal to the firstcapacitance, which can, for example, be in the ranges discussedpreviously. If a plurality of capacitors are included, the capacitorsmay be electrically connected together in any suitable way. In someembodiments, the plurality of capacitors may be connected in parallel,or in series, or a combination of parallel and series connections may beused.

The circuit 200 of the present description may be adapted to minimize aneffect due to a local parasitic capacitance. The circuit 200 can be soadapted, for example, by limiting the number of loops of the antenna(for example, to the almost one loop shown (although further loops suchas 2, 3, etc. are contemplated in other examples), using an antenna 202having a sufficiently large cross-sectional area, and/or by including anappropriate stand-alone capacitor or a plurality of stand-alonecapacitors (capacitor 204) to provide a desired resonant frequency. Insome examples, the IC 204 may have an effective capacitance and thecapacitor 206 may have an equivalent first capacitance. A parallel sumof the effective capacitance and the first capacitance may be at least4, or at least 7, or at least 10, or at least 12 times the maximum localparasitic capacitance. In some examples, the equivalent capacitance isat least 3 times, or at least 3.5 times, or at least 4 times, or atleast 5 times the maximum local parasitic capacitance. In someembodiments, the equivalent capacitance of the capacitor 206 is in arange of 3 times to 1000 times the maximum local parasitic capacitance.

Further circuits constructs are disclosed in United States PatentApplication Publication No. 2018/0068214, entitled “RADIO FREQUENCYIDENTIFICATION TAG”, which is co-owned by the Applicant, the entiredisclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 3 shows a circuit 300 constructed in the manner of the circuit 200have that the antenna 302 of the circuit 300 comprises a wire 304 havinga circular cross-section as shown in FIG. 3A. The wire 304 can beconstructed of a metallic material, for example, such as copper,aluminum, alloys thereof or the like. The diameter of the wire 304 canbe in the range of about 5 mils in diameter to 250 mils. The wire 304 insome examples can be wound into a coil to form a geometry comprising atleast about one loop of wire (similar to FIG. 2), several loops of wire,or up to hundreds or thousands of loops as desired. Wire 304 can beinductor wire or magnet wire, for example. Wire 304 in some cases cancomprise enameled copper (enameled for insulation between turns/loops).

FIG. 4 shows a portion of a circuit 400 (e.g., circuit 200 or circuit300) where the antenna 402 (e.g., antenna 202 or antenna 302) has afirst side that can be positioned on or closely adjacent a first backing404. The circuit 400 additionally can include a second backing 406positioned on or closely adjacent a second opposing side of the antenna402. As such, the antenna 402 can be sandwiched between the firstbacking 404 and the second backing 406. The first backing 404 and/orsecond backing 406 can act to support the antenna 402. Backing thicknesscan be between 0.001 inch and 0.02 inches, for example. The backing canbe constructed of elastomeric polyurethane, co-polyester, polyimide,polysulfide, silicone, polyether block amide films, epoxies, otherurethanes, polybenzimidazole, polysulfone (PSU), poly(ethersulfone)(PES) and polyetherimide (PEI), poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS),polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyether ketones (PEK), or fluoropolymers.

FIG. 5 shows the circuit 200 of FIG. 2 with the width 216 as compared toa largest dimension (indicated as Y) of various types of abrasiveparticles 502, 504, 506 and 508. Abrasive particle 502 comprises acrushed particle. Abrasive particles 504, 506 and 508 are shapedparticles (e.g., particle 504 is a rod, 506 is a truncated pyramid, and508 is a circle. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 5A, a ratio of the width 216 ofthe antenna 200 to the largest dimension or a largest average dimensionof the plurality of abrasive particles 502, 504, 506 and 508 is at least1.1 to 1 or at least 1.2 to 1, at least 1.5 to 1, or at least 2 to 1.This ratio or a greater ratio reduces the likelihood of one of theplurality of abrasive particles 502, 504, 506 and 508 being pressedthrough and completely severing the antenna 202 during the formingprocess of the bonded abrasive wheel.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show example circuits 600 and 700, respectively. Thesecircuits 600, 700 can be constructed in the manner of the circuits 200,300 and 400 previously described but differ in that they can includedifferently shaped antennas 602 and 702. In particular, the antenna 602of FIG. 6 can have a variable extent about the axis 214 such that afirst one or more portions 604 of the antenna are disposed relativelycloser to the axis 214 than a second one or more portions of the antenna606. Similarly, the antenna 702 can have a variable extent about theaxis 214 such that a first one or more portions 704 of the antenna 702are disposed relatively closer to the axis 214 than a second one or moreportions 706 of the antenna 702. The antenna 702 differs from antenna602 in that the antenna 702 is variable extent relative to the axis 214in three-dimensions while the antenna 602 is variable predominantly inextent in only two-dimensions.

The construction of the antennas 602 and 702 shown is exemplary andother shapes are contemplated. Shaping the antenna to have a variableextent can be provided to enable some yield due to the shape inanticipation of deformation that can occur during the forming process ofthe bonded abrasive wheel.

FIG. 8A shows another example of a circuit 800 similar to that ofcircuit 200 of FIGS. 2 and 2A. However, the circuit 800 differs in thatit does not include the capacitor 206 of FIGS. 2 and 2A and furtherincludes an encapsulation 803 around IC 804. In some examples, it shouldbe recognized that the capacitor 206 can be enclosed within theencapsulation 803 along with the IC. The encapsulation 803 can alsosurround the solder 808 (leads not specifically shown) and portions ofthe antenna 802. The encapsulation 803 can comprise a material having amodulus of greater than about 0.25 MPa but less than about 125 GPa, thegreater than about 0.25 MPa but less than about 10 Gpa, or greater thanabout 0.25 MPa but less than about 2.5 Gpa are contemplated. Thematerial can comprise an epoxy such as 3M™ Scotch-Weld™ Epoxy AdhesiveDP100 silicones, urethanes, epoxy resins, fluoropolymers. Silicone epoxyis also contemplated for the material including Duralco™ 4460 orRESBOND™ 919.

FIGS. 8B and 8C show the circuit 800 of FIG. 8A embedded within a bondedabrasive wheel 810. FIG. 8B also illustrates a region 812 adjacent andaround at least an antenna 802 that can contain a second plurality ofabrasive particles that differ in construction from the first pluralityof abrasive particles that make up other regions of the bonded abrasivewheel 810 such as along and adjacent the grinding surface 814. Thesesecond plurality of abrasive particles (e.g., Norland Optical Adhesives:NOA 72, NOA 73, NOA 74, NOA 75, NOA 76) can comprise particles that aresmaller and/or particles having less edges or less sharp edges relativeto the first plurality of abrasive particles. The region 812 in otherexamples can be provided with a filler material (previously described inFIGS. 1A and 1B) rather than the abrasive particles. FIG. 8C alsoillustrated a bushing 816. Similar to the bushing 192, the bushing 816can be comprised of a non-metallic material (e.g., a polymer), forexample. In other examples the bushing 816 can be split and/or may notextend entirely through the bonded abrasive wheel 810.

FIGS. 9 and 9A show a circuit 900 similar to that of the prior circuitspreviously discussed save that the circuit 900 has an antenna 902comprises a mesh 904. As shown in FIG. 9A, the mesh 904 can have aplurality of openings 906. Each of the plurality of openings 906 beingdefined between a plurality of strands 908 of the mesh 904. A total areaof all of the plurality of openings 906 is between 5 times and 20 timessmaller than a central opening 910 defined by the antenna 902 having theradius of curvature. Total area of plurality of openings can be between5 times and 50 times smaller than the central opening 910, or between 5and 200 times smaller, or between 5 and 500 times smaller Alternatively,according to further embodiments a dimension of the plurality ofopenings 906 to width 216 (FIG. 2) can be between 2 times and 10 timessmaller than the width 216, or 2 times and 20 times smaller, or about 2times and 100 times smaller. The mesh 904 can act as a scrim for thebonded abrasive wheel 912 of FIG. 9 in operation to provide support tothe curable composition of the abrasive particles and the binder. Thesize of each of the plurality of openings 906 can be about 100micrometers to about 2 mm, or about 100 micrometers to about 5 mm, forexample.

FIG. 10 shows another bonded abrasive wheel 1000 construct with acircuit 1002 having an antenna 1004. The bonded abrasive wheel 1000 caninclude a first scrim 1006 disposed in close proximity (abutting orslightly spaced from) a first side of the antenna 1004. The bondedabrasive wheel 1000 can include a second scrim 1008, disposed in closeproximity (abutting or slightly spaced from) a second side of theantenna 1004. In this manner the first scrim 1006 and the second scrim1008 can sandwich at least the antenna 1004 and in some cases all of thecircuit 1002.

FIGS. 11-12C show examples of circuits that have portions of the circuit(e.g., the IC and/or leads) added after the forming of the abrasivewheels. FIGS. 11 and 11A show an embodiment of a circuit 1100 where theleads 1108 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to anantenna 1102. It should be noted in the example of FIGS. 11 and 11A,components such as the leads 1108 and IC 1104 are not drawn to scale butare exaggerated in size for viewer understanding. The antenna 1102 canbe embedded in a bonded abrasive wheel 1110 and the leads can extendthrough the abrasive wheel 1110 such as to a back surface 1112 (FIG.11A) thereof or an abrading surface 1114 (FIG. 11A) thereof. The IC 1104can be added to the circuit 1100 by electrical connection to the leads1108 after the forming of the bonded abrasive wheel 1110. According tothe example of FIGS. 11 and 11A, the IC 1104 can be disposed on oradjacent the back surface 1112 (FIG. 11A), for example.

FIG. 12 shows another example of a circuit 1200 and a bonded abrasivewheel 1210. In FIG. 12, the portion of the circuit 1200 embedded in thebonded abrasive wheel 1210 again comprises the antenna 1202. However, inFIG. 12, the bonded abrasive wheel 1210 includes a recess 1212 with anopening 1214 to either a back surface 1216 or an abrading surface 1218of the bonded abrasive wheel 1210. As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, a plug1220 containing an IC 1204 (FIG. 12B) and electrical connection pads1206 can be configured to insert into the recess 1212 and makeelectrical contact with the antenna 1202 after forming of the bondedabrasive wheel 1210.

FIGS. 13 and 13A show an example circuit 1300 such as those previouslydescribed where an antenna 1302 of the circuit 1300 is configured to actas a bushing 1304 for a bonded abrasive wheel 1310 (FIG. 13 only). Asshown in FIG. 13, a small gap between a first end 1306 and a second end1308 of the antenna 1302 can remain as previously described in theexample of FIGS. 2 and 2A. In some cases, the gap may be filled with anon-signal interfering material, e.g., a polymer or the like. As shownin FIGS. 13 and 13A, the IC can be placed in the gap between the firstend 1306 and the second end 1308.

FIG. 14 shows a portion of a method 1400 of forming a bonded abrasivewheel 1401 with a circuit 1402 embedded therein. Related methods offorming the bonded abrasive wheel 1401 have been previously discussedwith reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B. The method 1400 includes a mold 1404having a circular mold cavity 1405 with a central portion 1407(reference FIG. 16) configured to create to a central hub. The mold 1404includes sidewalls 1406 and a baseplate 1408. The central mold cavity1405 can have an outer circumference defined by the sidewalls 1406. Themethod 1400 can include placing one or more scrims (scrims 1434) on thebaseplate 1408. As shown in FIG. 14, the method 1400 includespositioning a first layer 1412 of a first curable composition 1414 intothe mold 1404. The first curable composition 1414 can comprise abrasiveparticles dispersed in a binder precursor as previously illustrated anddiscussed in reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B.

As shown in FIG. 14, the method 1400 can include forming at least afirst recess 1418 in the first layer 1412 of the first curablecomposition 1414. The method 1400 can further include positioning thecircuit 1402 (including antenna 1422 and IC 1424 shown in FIG. 14)within the mold 1404 on the first layer 1412 of the first curablecomposition 1414. The positioning can include positioning the IC 1424within the at least first recess 1418.

The method 1400 can include positioning a second layer 1430 of the firstcurable composition 1414 (or a second curable composition with adifferent binder precursor or different type of abrasive particles) intothe mold 1404 on the first layer 1412 and the circuit 1402 such that thecircuit 1402 can be received between the first layer 1412 and the secondlayer 1430. The method 1400 can include at least partially curing thefirst curable composition 1414 to provide the bonded abrasive wheel1401. In some examples (such as in FIG. 14) one or more scrims,backings, etc. 1434 can be positioned in the mold 1404 such as been thefirst layer 1412 and the second layer 1430 prior to various of themethod steps discussed above including the at least partial curing.

As previously discussed, in some example methods a filler and/or adifferent plurality of abrasive particles (e.g., smaller particles,particles have less cutting edges or less sharp cutting edges) can bepositioned in the mold 1404 adjacent and around the circuit 1402.(Reference FIGS. 8B and 8C). According to further example methods, theplurality of scrims 1434 can include one or more scrims disposed to abutor be closely adjacent the circuit 1402. In the case of two scrims,these can be positioned so as to sandwich the circuit 1402 therebetween.(Reference FIG. 10). Furthermore, according to some methods, aspreviously discussed in reference to FIGS. 9 and 9A, in some examplesthe antenna 1402 can be configured as a mesh antenna. Thus, one of theplurality of scrims 1434 such as the one shown between the first layer1412 and the second layer 1430 need not be provided as the antenna 1402with the mesh construct can act as a scrim.

It is to be recognized that depending on the example, certain acts orevents of any of the techniques described herein can be performed in adifferent sequence, can be added, merged, or left out altogether (e.g.,not all described acts or events are necessary for the practice of thetechniques). Moreover, in certain examples, acts or events can beperformed concurrently, e.g., through multi-threaded processing,interrupt processing, or multiple processors, rather than sequentially.

In one or more examples, the functions described can be implemented inhardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof, locatedlocally or remotely. If implemented in software, the functions can bestored on or transmitted over a computer-readable medium as one or moreinstructions or code and executed by a hardware-based processing unit.Computer-readable media can include computer-readable storage media,which corresponds to a tangible medium such as data storage media, orcommunication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of acomputer program from one place to another, e.g., according to acommunication protocol. In this manner, computer-readable mediagenerally can correspond to (1) tangible computer-readable storage mediawhich is non-transitory or (2) a communication medium such as a signalor carrier wave. Data storage media can be any available media that canbe accessed by one or more computers or one or more processors toretrieve instructions, code and/or data structures for implementation ofthe techniques described in this disclosure. A computer program productcan include a computer-readable medium.

By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable storagemedia can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical diskstorage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, flashmemory, or any other medium that can be used to store desired programcode in the form of instructions or data structures and that can beaccessed by a computer. Also, any connection is properly termed acomputer-readable medium. For example, if instructions are transmittedfrom a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable,fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), orwireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then thecoaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wirelesstechnologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in thedefinition of medium.

It should be understood, however, that computer-readable storage mediaand data storage media do not include connections, carrier waves,signals, or other transitory media, but are instead directed tonon-transitory, tangible storage media. Disk and disc, as used herein,includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatiledisc (DVD), floppy disk and Blu-ray disc, where disks usually reproducedata magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers.Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope ofcomputer-readable media.

Instructions can be executed by one or more processors, such as one ormore digital signal processors (DSPs), general purpose microprocessors,application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmablegate arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logiccircuitry, as well as any combination of such components. Accordingly,the term “processor,” as used herein can refer to any of the foregoingstructures or any other structure suitable for implementation of thetechniques described herein. In addition, in some aspects, thefunctionality described herein can be provided within dedicated hardwareand/or software modules. Also, the techniques could be fully implementedin one or more circuits or logic elements.

The techniques of this disclosure can be implemented in a wide varietyof devices or apparatuses, including a wireless communication device orwireless handset, a microprocessor, an integrated circuit (IC) or a setof ICs (e.g., a chip set). Various components, modules, or units aredescribed in this disclosure to emphasize functional aspects of devicesconfigured to perform the disclosed techniques, but do not necessarilyrequire realization by different hardware units. Rather, as describedabove, various units can be combined in a hardware unit or provided by acollection of interoperative hardware units, including one or moreprocessors as described above, in conjunction with suitable softwareand/or firmware.

The functions, techniques or algorithms described herein may beimplemented in software in one example. The software may consist ofcomputer executable instructions stored on computer readable media orcomputer readable storage device such as one or more non-transitorymemories or other type of hardware-based storage devices, either localor networked. Further, such functions correspond to modules, which maybe software, hardware, firmware or any combination thereof. Multiplefunctions may be performed in one or more modules as desired, and theexamples described are merely examples. The software may be executed ona digital signal processor, ASIC, microprocessor, or other type ofprocessor operating on a computer system, such as a personal computer,server or other computer system, turning such computer system into aspecifically programmed machine

Various examples have been described. These and other examples arewithin the scope of the following claims.

As used herein:

The term “a”, “an”, and “the” are used interchangeably with “at leastone” to mean one or more of the elements being described.

The term “and/or” means either or both. For example, “A and/or B” meansonly A, only B, or both A and B.

The terms “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” and variationsthereof, are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter andequivalents thereof as well as additional items. The term “adjacent”refers to the relative position of two elements, such as, for example,two layers, that are close to each other and may or may not benecessarily in contact with each other or that may have one or morelayers separating the two elements as understood by the context in which“adjacent” appears.

All scientific and technical terms used herein have meanings commonlyused in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions providedherein are to facilitate understanding of certain terms used frequentlyin this application and are not meant to exclude a reasonableinterpretation of those terms in the context of the present disclosure.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers in the description and theclaims expressing feature sizes, amounts, and physical properties usedin the specification and claims are to be understood as being modifiedin all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated tothe contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoingspecification and attached claims are approximations that can varydepending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by thoseskilled in the art utilizing the teachings disclosed herein. At the veryleast, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine ofequivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter shouldat least be construed in light of the number of reported significantdigits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstandingthat the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scopeof the disclosure are approximations, the numerical values set forth inthe specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Anynumerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarilyresulting from the standard deviations found in their respective testingmeasurements.

The term “substantially” or “about” means within 20 percent (in somecases within 15 percent, in yet other cases within 10 percent, and inyet other cases within 5 percent) of the attribute being referred to.Thus, a value A is “substantially similar” to a value B if the value Ais within plus/minus one or more of 5%, 10%, 20% of the value A.

Features and advantages of the present disclosure will be furtherunderstood upon consideration of the detailed description as well as theappended claims.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numberssubsumed within that range (e.g. a range from 1 to 5 includes, forinstance, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5) and any range within thatrange.

The term “central hub” refers to the central region of a bonded abrasivewheel that engages and/or contacts a rotatable shaft of a power tool innormal usage. Examples include an arbor hole, an arbor hole lined with asleeve, grommet or rivet, an arbor hole filled having an insert therein,and a mechanical fastener centrally adhered to the bonded abrasivewheel. The term “ceramic” refers to any of various hard, brittle, heat-and corrosion-resistant materials made of at least one metallic element(which may include silicon) combined with oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, orsulfur.

The term “rotational axis” is reference to a bonded abrasive wheelrefers to the axis around which the wheel is rotated during normal usageto abrade a workpiece.

The term “major dimension” refers to the longest dimension of an object.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference topreferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize thatchanges can be made in form and detail without departing from the spiritand scope of the present disclosure.

VARIOUS NOTES & EXAMPLES

The disclosure herein includes but is not limited to the followingillustrative Examples:

Example 1 is a bonded abrasive wheel that can optionally comprise: aplurality of abrasive particles disposed in a binder; a first grindingsurface; a second surface opposing the first grinding surface; an outercircumference; a rotational axis extending through a central hub; and acircuit configured as a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unitcoupled to the abrasive wheel, wherein the circuit optionally cancomprise: an antenna configured to communicate with one or more externaldevices and comprising a first end and a second end, wherein antenna hasa radius of curvature about an axis along at least a portion thereofsuch that the first end is disposed adjacent to but is spaced from thesecond end, and an integrated circuit (IC) operably coupled to theantenna and configured to store at least a first data.

Example 2 is the abrasive wheel of Example 1, wherein the antennaoptionally comprises a single non-complete loop between the first endand the second end and is embedded within the abrasive wheel so as to bespaced from the first grinding surface.

Example 3 is the abrasive wheel of Example 2, wherein the antenna can bespaced away from either the first grinding surface or the second surfaceby between 0.1% and 200% percent of the radius of curvature of theantenna.

Example 4 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples1-3, wherein the integrated circuit is optionally one of: positionedwithin the abrasive wheel or positioned at the second surface, andwherein the leads extend into the bonded abrasive wheel from theintegrated circuit to electrically connect to the antenna that isembedded within the bonded abrasive wheel.

Example 5 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples1-4, further optionally comprising one or more capacitors operablycoupled the antenna in parallel with the IC.

Example 6 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples1-5, further optionally comprising one or more sensors coupled to theabrasive wheel and an abrading tool configured to drive the abrasivewheel, and wherein: the first data includes data received from the oneor more sensors, and the circuit is configured to communicate data,including the at least first data, regarding the abrasive wheel receivedfrom the one or more sensors, and the abrading tool comprises a datastorage unit configured to store a second data based at least in part onthe at least first data.

Example 7 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples1-6, wherein the integrated circuit can be encapsulated within amaterial having a modulus of greater than 0.25 MPa but less than 125GPa.

Example 8 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples1-7, wherein a ratio of a width of the antenna to a longest dimension ofthe plurality of abrasive particles can be at least 1.1 to 1.

Example 9 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples1-8, wherein the antenna can comprise a mesh having a plurality ofopenings, each of the plurality of openings being defined between aplurality of strands of the mesh.

Example 10 is the abrasive wheel of Example 9, wherein a total area ofall of the plurality of openings can be between 5 times and 20 timessmaller than a central opening defined by the antenna having the radiusof curvature.

Example 11 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples1-10, wherein the central hub is configured to receive a bushing, andwherein the bushing comprises one of: a non-metallic material; or theantenna.

Example 12 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples1-11, wherein the antenna can have a variable extent about the axis suchthat a first one or more portions of the antenna are disposed relativelycloser to the axis than a second one or more portions of the antenna.

Example 13 is a bonded abrasive wheel that can optionally comprise:

a plurality of abrasive particles disposed in a binder; a first grindingsurface; an outer circumference; a rotational axis extending through acentral hub; and a circuit configured as a Radio FrequencyIdentification (RFID) unit coupled to the bonded abrasive wheel, whereinthe circuit can optionally comprise: an antenna embedded within thebonded abrasive wheel; and an integrated circuit (IC) operably coupledto the antenna, wherein the integrated circuit is encapsulated within amaterial having a modulus of greater than 0.25 MPa but less than 125GPa.

Example 14 is the abrasive wheel of Example 13, wherein the antenna cancomprise a single non-complete loop between a first end and a secondend, and wherein both the antenna and the IC are embedded within theabrasive wheel so as to be spaced from the first grinding surface.

Example 15 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples13-14, wherein the antenna can comprise a mesh having a plurality ofopenings, each of the plurality of openings being defined between aplurality of strands of the mesh.

Example 16 is the abrasive wheel of Example 15, wherein a total area ofall of the plurality of openings can be between 5 times and 20 timessmaller than a central opening defined by the antenna having the radiusof curvature.

Example 17 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples13-16, wherein the central hub can be configured to receive a bushing,and wherein the bushing can comprise one of: a non-metallic material; orthe antenna.

Example 18 is a bonded abrasive wheel that can optionally comprise:

a plurality of abrasive particles disposed in a binder; a first grindingsurface; an outer circumference; a rotational axis extending through acentral hub; and a circuit configured for communication coupled to thebonded abrasive wheel, wherein the circuit can optionally comprise: anantenna embedded within the bonded abrasive wheel, the antennacomprising a mesh having a plurality of openings, each of the pluralityof openings being defined between a plurality of strands of the mesh,and wherein, in cross-section, wherein a total area of all of theplurality of openings is between 5 times and 20 times smaller than acentral opening defined by the antenna having the radius of curvature;and an integrated circuit (IC) operably coupled to the antenna.

Example 19 is the abrasive wheel of Example 18, wherein the integratedcircuit can be encapsulated within a material having a modulus ofgreater than 0.25 MPa but less than 125 GPa.

Example 20 is the abrasive wheel of any one or combination of Examples18-19, wherein the antenna can comprise a single non-complete loopbetween a first end and a second end, and wherein both the antenna andthe IC can be positioned within the abrasive wheel so as to be spacedfrom the first grinding surface.

Example 21 is the abrasive wheel of any of Examples 18-20, wherein thecentral hub can be configured to receive a bushing, and wherein thebushing can comprise one of: a non-metallic material; or the antenna.

Example 22 is a method of making a bonded abrasive wheel, the method cancomprise the steps of: positioning a first layer of a first curablecomposition into a mold having a circular mold cavity with a centralportion configured to create a central hub, wherein the circular moldcavity has an outer circumference, and wherein the first curablecomposition comprises abrasive particles dispersed in a binderprecursor; forming a least a first recess in the first layer of thefirst curable composition; positioning a circuit within the mold on thefirst layer of the first curable composition, wherein the positioningincludes positioning an integrated circuit (IC) of the circuit withinthe at least first recess; positioning a second layer of first curablecomposition into the mold on the first layer and the circuit such thatthe circuit is positioned between the first layer and the second layer;and at least partially curing the first curable composition to providethe bonded abrasive wheel.

Example 23 is the method of Example 22, and optionally furthercomprising positioning a different plurality of abrasive particles in asecond curable composition in the mold adjacent and around the circuit.

Example 24 is the method of any one of Examples 22-23, and optionallyfurther comprising positioning a plurality of scrims in the mold to abutor be closely adjacent at least a portion of the circuit.

Example 25 is the method of any one of Examples 22-24, wherein thecircuit can have an antenna comprising a mesh having a plurality ofopenings, each of the plurality of openings being defined between aplurality of strands of the mesh, wherein the mesh is configured to actas a scrim.

WORKING EXAMPLES

Unless otherwise noted, all parts, percentages, ratios, etc. in theExamples and the rest of the specification are by weight.

TABLE 1 ABBRE- VIATION DESCRIPTION PAF POTASSIUM FLUOROALUMINATE,PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION D₁₀ = 2.58 MICROMETERS, D₅₀ = 11.5MICROMETERS, D₉₀ = 36.6 MICROMETERS, FROM KBM AFFLIPS B. V., OSS, THENETHERLANDS. PRL LIQUID PHENOLIC RESIN, AVAILABLE AS DYNEA 5136G FROMDYNEA OY CORPORATION, HELSINKI, FINLAND. PRP PHENOLIC RESIN POWDER,AVAILABLE AS VARCUM 29302 FROM DUREZ CORPORATION, DALLAS, TEXAS. PMIX50:50 BLEND OF PAF AND PRP MIXED IN A V- BLENDER FOR 3 HOURS. SAP1SHAPED ABRASIVE PARTICLES WERE PREPARED ACCORDING TO THE DISCLOSURE OFU.S. Pat. No. 8,142,531 (ADEFRIS ET AL). THE SHAPED ABRASIVE PARTICLESWERE PREPARED BY MOLDING ALUMINA SOL GEL IN EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE-SHAPEDPOLYPROPYLENE MOLD CAVITIES. AFTER DRYING AND FIRING, THE RESULTINGSHAPED ABRASIVE PARTICLES WERE ABOUT 1.4 MM (SIDE LENGTH) × 0.35 MM(THICKNESS), WITH A DRAFT ANGLE APPROXIMATELY 98 DEGREES. SCRIM1FIBERGLASS MESH OBTAINED AS STYLE 4400 FROM INDUSTRIAL POLYMER ANDCHEMICALS, INC., SHREWSBURY, MASSACHUSETTS. SCRIM2 FIBERGLASS MESH FROMTISSA GLASWEBEREI AG, OBERKULM, SWITZERLAND. SCRIM3 FIBERGLASS MESH,OBTAINED AS “RXO 08-125 X 23 MM”, TRIMMED TO 114 MM OUTSIDE DIAMETERFROM RYMATEX SP. ZO.O., RYMANOW, POLAND

Example 1 Preparation of NFC CIRCUIT NFC1—Free Standing Circuit with 2mil Cu

NFC circuit NFC 1 was created using as a single loop antenna as shown inFIG. 15 using free-standing Cu foil. A 2 mil thick Cu film on a paperliner was die cut using a rotary die tool (Obtained from WilsonManufacturing St. Louis, Mo.). Dimensions of the antenna are shown inFIG. 15. An NFC chip (NXP Semiconductors NTAGI2C, obtained from Digi-KeyElectronics, Thief River Falls, Minn.) and the capacitor chip (ceramicchip capacitor, 1000 picofarads, size 0603 (1608 metric), temperaturecoefficient NP0/COG (obtained from Digi-Key Electronics, Thief RiverFalls, Minn.) was soldered across the gap. The chip and the capacitorwere encapsulated by a droplet of NOA 76 (Norland Optical Adhesive Inc.,Cranbury, N.J.).

Preparation of NFC CIRCUIT NFC2—Free Standing Circuit with 1 mil Cu

NFC circuit NFC 2 was created using as a single loop antenna usingfree-standing Cu foil. A 1 mil thick Cu film (obtained as 1245 FoilTape, 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn.) on a paper liner was die cut using arotary die tool (obtained from Wilson Manufacturing St. Louis, Mo.). Theinner and outer radius of the antenna loop was 2.9 and 3.4 cm (againreference FIG. 15), respectively. The dimensions of the antenna areshown in FIG. 15. The NFC chip (NXP Semiconductors NTAGI2C, obtainedfrom Digi-Key Electronics, Thief River Falls, Minn.)) and the capacitorchip (0603 1000 pF) was soldered across the gap in the single loopantenna. The chip and the capacitor were encapsulated by a blob of NOA76 (Norland Optical Adhesive Inc., Cranbury, N.J.).

Preparation of NFC CIRCUIT NFC3-Circuit on Polyimide Substrate

The NFC circuit NFC3 was created on a polyimide substrate. First, aresist was printed (ink from Cartridge-Free ColorQube® Ink, 8570Series”, part 108R00930, Xerox Corporation, Norwalk, Conn.) onCu/polyimide film (Espanex Polyimide Laminate, part number MC 18-25-00FRM, 18 um Cu/1 mil polyimide obtained from Electro-Materials, Inc.,Eagan Minn.)) using a wax printer (obtained as Xerox ColorQube 8570DN,from Xerox Corporation, Norwalk, Conn.). The substrate was then immersedin Cu etchant solution (MG-Chemicals 415-4L, obtained from MouserElectronics, Mansfield, Tex.) to remove areas of Cu that are notprotected by the resist. The resist was then washed away using methylethyl ketone (MEK). This completed the creation of a multiloop Cu NFCantenna (#loops—10, Cu trace width and pitch is 500 um, respectively).The NFC chip (a NXP Semiconductors NTAGI2C, obtained from Digi-KeyElectronics, Thief River Falls, Minn.)) and the tuning capacitor chip isthen soldered onto the etched Cu pads. The jumper connecting the insideto the outside of the antenna loop (without shorting the other looptraces) is created by applying a piece of polyimide tape (tape 5413,obtained from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn.) as the insulation materialand then soldering a sheathed conductor cable across at the starting andfinishing point of the antenna loop. The chip and the tuning capacitorare encapsulated usingepoxy (DP-100, obtained from 3M Company, St. Paul,Minn.).

Preparation of MIX1

The mix was prepared according to the composition listed in Table 2. Themix was prepared by first mixing SAP1 with PRL for 7 minutes in a paddlemixer, then the PMIX powder blend was added and mixed for 7 additionalminutes.

TABLE 2 Amount, grams Component MIX1 SAP1 720 PMIX 225 PRL 55

Example 1

A Type 27 depressed-center composite grinding wheel was prepared asfollows. A 4.5-inch (11.4 cm) diameter disc of SCRIM1 was placed into a4.5-inch diameter (11.4-cm) mold made of hardened steel having thecentral portion 1407 previously discussed in reference to FIG. 14. 75grams of MIX1 was spread out evenly and a 4.5-inch (11.4-cm) disc ofSCRIM3 was placed on top of the mix 1. The NFC circuit NFC1 was placedand centered inside the mold as shown in FIG. 16. A second 4.5-inch(11.4-cm) disc of SCRIM3 was placed on top of the NFC1. Another 75 gramsof Mix 1 was spread out evenly on the third scrim. A 3-inch (7.6-cm)SCRIM2 disc was inserted and centered into the cavity. The filled cavitymold was then pressed at a pressure of 30 tons. The resulting wheel wasremoved from the cavity mold and placed on a spindle betweendepressed-center aluminum plates and pressed at 5 tons to give the wheela Type 27 depressed-center shape. The wheel was then placed in an ovento cure for 7 hours at 79° C., 3 hours at 107° C., 18 hours at 185° C.,and a temperature ramp-down over 4 hours to 27° C. The dimensions of thefinal grinding wheel were 114.3 mm diameter×6.35 mm thickness. Thecenter hole was ⅞ inch (2.2 cm) in diameter.

The resonance of the NFC chip, capacitor, and antenna assembly wasmeasured wirelessly with a portable vector network analyzer (miniVNAPRO, http://miniradiosolutions.com/minivna-pro/) and accompanyingreadout software (vna/J http://vnaj.dl2sba.com), with a near-fieldantenna (custom-fabricated circular antenna with 2 loops of copper onFR4 substrate having about 50 mm average antenna diameter with an SMAtermination). Recording the reflected real part of impedance allowedresonant frequency and quality factor to be determined. After assemblyof NFC chip with antenna, standard NFC Data Exchange Format (NDEF) plaintext data was written to the tag with a Samsung Galaxy S5 model G900H(obtained from Samsung Electronics, South Korea) smartphone withapplication “NFC TagWriter by NXP” (obtained from NXP Semiconductors,Netherlands) The wheel was then scanned with a vector network analyzer(miniVNA PRO) and Samsung Galaxy S5 G900H phone (obtained from SamsungElectronics, South Korea) and the previously written data wassuccessfully read and new data was able to be written as well.

Comparative Example A

A Type 27 depressed-center composite grinding wheel was prepared asfollows. A 4.5-inch (11.4 cm) diameter disc of SCRIM1 was placed into a4.5-inch diameter (11.4-cm) mold made of hardened steel. 75 grams ofMIX1 was spread out evenly and a 4.5-inch (11.4-cm) disc of SCRIM3 wasplaced on top of the mix 1. The NFC circuit NFC2 was placed and centeredinside the mold. A second 4.5-inch (11.4-cm) disc of SCRIM3 was placedon top of the NFC2. Another 75 grams of Mix 1 was spread out evenly onthe third scrim. A 3-inch (7.6-cm) SCRIM2 disc was inserted and centeredinto the cavity. The filled cavity mold was then pressed at a pressureof 30 tons. The resulting wheel was removed from the cavity mold andplaced on a spindle between depressed-center aluminum plates and pressedat 5 tons to give the wheel a Type 27 depressed-center shape. The wheelwas then placed in an oven to cure for 7 hours at 79° C., 3 hours at107° C., 18 hours at 185° C., and a temperature ramp-down over 4 hoursto 27° C. The dimensions of the final grinding wheel were 114.3 mmdiameter×6.35 mm thickness. The center hole was ⅞ inch (2.2 cm) indiameter.

The wheel was then scanned with the vector network analyzer (miniVNAPRO) described previously and phone as previously described but wasunable to read/write data.

Comparative Example B

A Type 27 depressed-center composite grinding wheel was prepared asfollows. A 4.5-inch (11.4 cm) diameter disc of SCRIM1 was placed into a4.5-inch diameter (11.4-cm) mold made of hardened steel. 75 grams ofMIX1 was spread out evenly and a 4.5-inch (11.4-cm) disc of SCRIM3 wasplaced on top of the mix 1. The NFC circuit NFC3 was placed and centeredinside the mold. A second 4.5-inch (11.4-cm) disc of SCRIM3 was placedon top of the NFC3. Another 75 grams of Mix 1 was spread out evenly onthe third scrim. A 3-inch (7.6-cm) SCRIM2 disc was inserted and centeredinto the cavity. The filled cavity mold was then pressed at a pressureof 30 tons. The resulting wheel was removed from the cavity mold andplaced on a spindle between depressed-center aluminum plates and pressedat 5 tons to give the wheel a Type 27 depressed-center shape. The wheelwas then placed in an oven to cure for 7 hours at 79° C., 3 hours at107° C., 18 hours at 185° C., and a temperature ramp-down over 4 hoursto 27° C. The dimensions of the final grinding wheel were 114.3 mmdiameter×6.35 mm thickness. The center hole was ⅞ inch (2.2 cm) indiameter.

The wheel was then scanned with the vector network analyzer (miniVNAPRO) described previously and phone as previously described but wasunable to read/write data.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bonded abrasive wheel comprising: a plurality of abrasive particles disposed in a binder; a first grinding surface; an outer circumference; a rotational axis extending through a central hub; and a circuit configured for communication coupled to the bonded abrasive wheel, wherein the circuit comprises: a ring-shaped antenna with a radius of curvature embedded within the bonded abrasive wheel, the antenna comprising a mesh having a plurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings being defined between a plurality of strands of the mesh, and wherein, in cross-section, a total area of all of the plurality of openings is between 5 times and 20 times smaller than a central opening defined by the antenna having the radius of curvature; and an integrated circuit (IC) operably coupled to the antenna.
 2. The abrasive wheel of claim 1, wherein the integrated circuit is encapsulated within a material having a modulus of greater than 0.25 MPa but less than 125 GPa.
 3. The abrasive wheel claim 1, wherein the antenna comprises a single non-complete loop between a first end and a second end, and wherein both the antenna and the IC are positioned within the abrasive wheel so as to be spaced from the first grinding surface.
 4. The abrasive wheel of claim 1, wherein the central hub is configured to receive a bushing, and wherein the bushing comprises one of: a non-metallic material; or the antenna. 